Broken Radial Head of the Elbow: Care Instructions

Overview

The radius is one of the two long bones in your lower arm. The radial head is the small part of this bone near the elbow. This bone may break (fracture) during sports or an accident. It may happen when your arm is hit or is used to protect you in a fall.

Fractures can range from a small, hairline crack to a bone that is broken into two or more pieces. Your treatment depends on how bad the break is.

Your doctor may have put your arm in a cast or splint. This will allow your elbow to heal or will keep it stable until you see another doctor. You also might wear a sling to help support your arm.

It may take weeks or months for your elbow to heal. You can help it heal with some care at home.

You heal best when you take good care of yourself. Eat a variety of healthy foods, and don't smoke.

You may have had a sedative to help you relax. You may be unsteady after having sedation. It can take a few hours for the medicine's effects to wear off. Common side effects of sedation include nausea, vomiting, and feeling sleepy or tired.

The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If the doctor gave you a sedative:
  • For 24 hours, don't do anything that requires attention to detail, such as going to work, making important decisions, or signing any legal documents. It takes time for the medicine's effects to completely wear off.
  • For your safety, do not drive or operate any machinery that could be dangerous. Wait until the medicine wears off and you can think clearly and react easily.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your arm for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your cast or splint. Keep your cast or splint dry.
• Follow the cast care instructions your doctor gives you. If you have a splint, do not take it off unless your doctor tells you to.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Prop up the sore arm on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• Follow instructions for exercises to keep your arm strong.
• Wiggle your fingers and wrist often to reduce swelling and stiffness.